Kwankwaso APC defection may be discussed as President Tinubu prepares to meet the former governor after talks with Governor Kabir Yusuf
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is set to meet Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, former governor of Kano State and 2023 NNPP presidential candidate, to discuss his possible defection to the All Progressives Congress, APC, sources have confirmed.
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The meeting is expected to follow recent discussions between President Tinubu and Governor Kabir Yusuf of Kano State, Kwankwaso’s political godson, at the Presidential Villa on Monday.
Party insiders said the talks aim to facilitate a smooth defection process for both politicians.
Some chieftains of the Kano APC have warned the Presidency of the risks of a “forced marriage” if Kwankwaso joins the party, arguing that existing structures in the state could be undermined.
While stakeholders support Governor Yusuf’s defection, many are opposed to the former governor entering the APC due to concerns about his influence over party operations.
Sources indicated that the Presidency is insisting on both defections to secure a clean sweep of the New Nigeria Peoples Party, NNPP, in Kano State. Kwankwaso has previously resisted joining the ruling party without clarity on what he and his supporters would gain.
Abdullahi Abbas, APC chairman in Kano State, confirmed that if Governor Yusuf defects, he would automatically assume leadership of the party in the state.
“Governor Yusuf becomes the leader of our party in the state, while (Abdullahi) Ganduje and possibly Kwankwaso, if they agree to defect, will serve as our political fathers,” Abbas said.
Political analysts suggest a meeting between President Tinubu and Kwankwaso could reshape Kano’s political landscape and influence Northern politics more broadly.
Meanwhile, tensions persist over Deputy Senate President Jubril Barau’s governorship ambition, as some strategists advocate granting Governor Yusuf an automatic ticket upon his defection.
Stakeholders continue to debate the implications of the potential defection, warning that ignoring local political dynamics could backfire in the state’s forthcoming elections.
Also read: Kano Governor Yusuf Meets Tinubu on Security, Infrastructure
Sources emphasised the importance of aligning presidential directives with the interests of local party structures to maintain stability and electoral success.
